All the Pretty Places by Joy Callaway

*** My Review ***

“All the Pretty Places” by Joy Callaway is a delightful novel set in Rye, New York, in 1893. Based on the author’s ancestors, the story revolves around the lives of the Fremd family and their renowned nursery. The vivid descriptions of plants and flowers create an immersive experience where readers can almost see and smell the botanical wonders. The protagonist, Sadie Fremd, stands out from other young ladies in society due to her deep love for plants and her ambition to take over the nursery. However, her father’s refusal to let her inherit the business and his insistence on arranging a wealthy marriage for her cause her great unhappiness, especially as she is secretly in love with Sam Jenkins, her coworker at the nursery. When Sadie and Sam’s anonymous acts of planting little gardens for the less fortunate come to light, tensions escalate, leading to a climactic confrontation.

One of the book’s strengths lies in Sadie’s compassionate nature and her determination to bring joy and beauty to the lives of the less fortunate. Her selflessness and willingness to sacrifice for those she loves are admirable qualities that resonate with readers. The backdrop of the Financial Panic of 1893 adds depth and urgency to the story, as the Fremds face the threat of losing their business and struggle to find a balance between love and necessity. However, despite these promising elements, the book falls short in fully exploring the questions it raises. The characters lack dimension and fail to undergo significant personal growth, which leaves the reader wanting more from their development.

The novel features an engaging cast of characters and a well-paced plot that keeps readers invested in the story of love and family. Although the romantic tension between the main characters builds slowly, the depiction of destitution during this period is eye-opening and vivid. The book leans more towards horticulture than historical fiction, with an abundance of scientific plant names that may overwhelm some readers. Nevertheless, the garden images conjured are enchanting. While character development could have been stronger, Sadie’s journey and the struggles of the less advantaged characters resonate with the reader, creating a desire for Sadie’s success in love and gardening.

Set during a time when societal expectations limited the aspirations of women to bearing children and hosting parties, Sadie Fremd defies these norms and embarks on a journey to take over her family’s business. I admired Sadie’s determination to follow her heart’s deepest desires, even when faced with social constraints.

There were several aspects of the book that I particularly enjoyed. The vivid descriptions of the landscapes allowed me to easily visualize them, immersing myself in the beauty of the surroundings. I also appreciated the Easter message conveyed through the colored tulips, which introduced a new and meaningful symbolism for me. The book carries a message of prioritizing the happiness of others before one’s own, and it underscores the profound impact even the smallest act of kindness can have on another person.

Overall, “All the Pretty Places” is a book that captures the essence of the Gilded Age, providing a window into the complexities of society and the struggles faced by both the privileged and the less fortunate. The author’s meticulous attention to historical detail creates a rich and immersive reading experience, transporting readers to a bygone era.

The romance in this story is bittersweet, oscillating between hope and potential heartbreak. I found myself unsure of how it would ultimately unfold and whether my heart would end up breaking alongside Sadie’s. And it occasionally felt repetitive in its portrayal of the challenges posed by societal norms and class differences. This melodramatic aspect of the story detracted a bit from the overall enjoyment for me. However, I recognize that some readers may appreciate the heightened emotions and tension it brings to the narrative.

While the romantic aspect of the story may start off slowly, the book compensates with its exploration of social issues and the stark disparities between different classes of society. Callaway fearlessly addresses the hardships faced by the poor, shedding light on homelessness and deep poverty during a time of economic turmoil. Through Sadie’s growing awareness and her efforts to alleviate the despair felt by those around her, the novel imparts important messages of compassion, empathy, and the need for social change.

In terms of writing style, Callaway’s prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid images of landscapes and botanical wonders. The descriptions of plants and flowers are not only realistic but also serve as powerful symbols of beauty and resilience in the face of adversity. The author’s ability to seamlessly weave fact and fiction is commendable, making the story feel grounded in history while still allowing room for creative storytelling.

One aspect that could have been further developed is the exploration of the establishment of public parks. While there are glimpses of this topic, readers may find themselves craving a deeper understanding of the public park movement during the time period. However, these moments serve as a tantalizing introduction, leaving readers eager to learn more about this fascinating aspect of history.

“All the Pretty Places” not only tells a compelling story but also serves as an inspiration to learn more about the historical events and movements mentioned within its pages. I found myself eager to delve deeper into the development of public parks during the Gilded Age, a subject I had not previously explored.

In conclusion, “All the Pretty Places” is a charming and well-crafted book that will appeal to fans of the Gilded Age, clean romance, and historical fiction. The novel is a fast read, primarily because the desire to uncover the fate of the characters keeps readers engrossed. It beautifully captures the essence of the era while shedding light on social issues and the power of nature to bring joy and hope. For fans of romantic drama and gardening, this book offers a satisfying ending that celebrates the inherent worthiness of all souls to experience beauty. Despite its occasional melodrama and repetitive dialogue, the book remains an enjoyable and worthwhile read, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the past and the resilience of the human spirit.